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West Virginia Opts In to FirstNet

West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice (D.) announced today that his state will opt in to having AT&T, Inc., the First Responder Network Authority’s (FirstNet) network partner, build a radio access network (RAN) in its state. It becomes the seventh state to opt in. “FirstNet and AT&T are really stepping up to help West Virginia and we are all grateful for their efforts to expand coverage for our first responders and our communities,” said Gov. Justice. “Our people will be safer because of this incredible initiative and it gives our state a launch pad for new jobs. I applaud AT&T for their commitment to a service area footprint that enhances coverage in West Virginia. Competitive pricing and the opportunities this will bring for future investment are limitless. The FirstNet network is a step toward putting West Virginia’s first responders on the leading edge.”

“Mobile broadband access is a critical, life-saving technology that needs to be in the hands of every first responder in West Virginia and across the country,” said Sen. Joe Manchin (D., W.Va.). “I commend Governor Justice’s decision to expand mobile broadband coverage for our public safety community through FirstNet and I applaud AT&T’s efforts to help modernize our public safety communications infrastructure. I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Justice and AT&T to expand mobile broadband access for both our first responders and all West Virginians.”

“Governor Justice’s decision to join FirstNet will enhance public safety communications throughout the state,” said FirstNet Chief Executive Officer Mike Poth. “This network will connect first responders operating across West Virginia’s diverse landscape — including its rural, mountainous and remote areas as well as federal lands. FirstNet and AT&T are pleased to have delivered a plan that meets West Virginia’s unique needs, and we look forward to bringing the network to public safety across the Mountain State.”

“First responders put their lives on the line every day,” said Chris Sambar, AT&T’s senior vice president-–FirstNet. “They deserve access to modern communications tools that will help them keep themselves and those they protect safe. And that’s exactly what we’ll deliver with Governor Justice’s decision to opt-in to FirstNet.” —Paul Kirby, paul.kirby@wolterskluwer.com